Entry Requirements
We expect learners to have qualifications at or equivalent to Level 2.
Learners are most likely to succeed if they have:
• five GCSEs at good grades and/or
• BTEC qualification(s) at Level 2.
• achievement in English and mathematics through GCSE or Functional Skills
You will be required to attend an interview for the course, and we could request a report from your previous school, college and/or employer. Prior experience of coaching or playing in sports teams will be beneficial but not essential as full training and opportunities will be available to all.
What's Involved
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is a two-year study programme (equivalent to 2 A-Levels). However, the learner can leave after 1 year with a BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching (equivalent to 1 A-Level).
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development is intended for post-16 learners who want to progress directly to employment, including self-employment, in sports coaching and development roles. It is also suitable for those wishing to progress to higher education, where learners have the added advantage of using the qualification to help them obtain part-time employment while studying. This course is the equivalent to 2 A levels with a maximum of 112 UCAS points available.
The Sport Coaching and Development Industry can be an extremely rewarding environment to work in. Career opportunities are diverse; ranging from working in sport coaching clubs, sporting academies and fitness centres. Some careers will require further study at Higher Education level, for example teaching or centre management.
This qualification includes the following mandatory units:
- Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry (Year 1)
- Health, Wellbeing and Sport (Year 1)
- Developing Coaching Skills (Year 1)
- Applied Coaching Skills (Year 2)
- Sport Development (Year 2)
- Self-Employment in Sport and Physical Activity (Year 2)
These units are delivered alongside a range of industry-recognised awards and coaching qualifications from the National Governing Bodies (NGB’s) pertinent to the profession. These could include FA Referee Course, FA Level 1 and Level 2 in Coaching Football.
Practical units will assess the traits required for coaching and leadership across a range of sports. You will also be coached by FA and UEFA qualified coaches giving you the best chance to advance your skills in football. Theoretical units will provide the scientific and technical knowledge required to succeed in coaching and leadership, whilst enabling students to progress to Higher Education or Industry.
This programme does not require students to be experienced in Sport coaching and development activities upon entry. Full coaching and training will be provided throughout the course. The course does not require you to have played football at a high level but does require you to want to further your skills in this area. A college football policy must be followed and adhered to by each student.
The Martin Gray Football Academy requires the purchase of essential training and match day sports kit. The cost will be £110 in total and this includes a training bundle and match day uniform. The training bundle consists of shorts, socks, t-shirt and a 3/4 training top. The match day sports kit comes with shorts, socks and a shirt with the student's name and number on the back. Other items are also available to purchase, which include a travel tracksuit. These items will be issued on the commencement of the course. For those who qualify, there are bursaries available to help pay for the essential training and match day sports kit. Please contact Darlington College for details.
NOTE: Some National Governing Body registration and course fees are not included in the programme, and membership of NGB’s will be mandatory in some instances. This will be encouraged as part of professional practice in the industry. These may vary. See contact information below for further information.
Goalkeeper information - As part of the level 2 and 3 sport courses with Football option at MGFA, students can access bespoke goalkeeper coaching. Students will be able train alongside the infield players but then break in to separate goalkeeper specific coaching sessions. This will cover the technical and strategic elements of goalkeeping. Students will have the opportunity to have focussed training which will support them develop their skills and fitness specific to being a goalkeeper.
For more information go to: https://martingrayfootballacademy.co.uk/
Course Assessment Method
This programme contains substantial practical elements supported by more theoretic units which allow reflection and application of experience. Seminars, practical sessions and research sessions will develop autonomy and encourage ownership of personal development. You will eventually lead groups within the college and externally, in preparation for employment or further training.
Internally assessed units will use formative and summative methods including written reports, presentations, posters/leaflets, video production and practical assessments. Much of the unit content will be delivered in practical sessions using College facilities and Eastbourne Sports Complex.
What's Next
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development has a primary focus on progression to employment as a coach. This will allow learners to work independently as a coach and have the skills and expertise to coach all levels of sports ability for both children and adults. Employment opportunities would be at all participant levels, from beginner to elite.
Examples of job roles include community coach, elite sports coach, holiday sports coach, after-school sports coach.
Learners are also able to take the following part-time courses during enrolment:
Active IQ Level 2 Certificate in Fitness Instructing (Gym)
Active IQ Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy
Active IQ Level 4 Certificate in Sports Massage Therapy
This course also creates a pathway to higher education. Many students go on to study:
> BA (Hons) in Sports Coaching and Development
> BA (Hons) in Sports Management
> BSc Sport and Physical Education
> BSc (Hons) Performance Analysis and Coaching Science
> FdSc Foundation Degree (Sports Coaching)
If university is not for you, you could progress from this course and become a teacher, gym instructor, or sports therapist with further study.
What if I Need Support
Here at the college we have outstanding support. Our support staffs are dedicated to providing you with all the help and guidance you may need throughout your college journey.
You might need help and advice on a wide range of issues such as childcare, counselling and additional learning support. For more information on any aspect of student support contact the Course and Information Team, who will direct your call to the appropriate member of the college support team, call: 01325 503030.
| Course Information | |
| Qualification Type: | BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching and Development |
| Level: | Level 3 |
| Awarding Body: | BTEC exam entries |
| Academic Year: | 23/24 |
| Start Date: | September 2023 |